WFC News

The Baltimore City Fire Department is paying overtime to fill nearly a third of its firefighter and medic shifts every day, blowing through its overtime budget.
The department is relying heavily on volunteer “callbacks,” in which firefighters or medics who have just finished a shift are asked to work another, said a department spokeswoman. - PUB DATE: 3/19/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: The Baltimore Sun - Metered Site

VIDEO: An election forum Monday allowed voters to hear from both sides of Ballot Issue 1, which residents will vote on as part of the Colorado Springs municipal election April 2.
The measure would allow collective bargaining for all uniformed firefighters, which means firefighters would be guaranteed an opportunity to negotiate pay, benefits and equipment concerns with the city. - PUB DATE: 3/19/2019 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Fox21 News

Our lower and drier-than-average snowpack could lead to an early start to fire season. However, this issue is complex.
Dry and breezy weather can increase fire danger come summer. A reduced snowpack can also play an important role in elevating the threat for wildfires.
Large, destructive wildfires filled the air with dense smoke across the entire Pacific Northwest the last two summers. - PUB DATE: 3/18/2019 5:46:46 PM - SOURCE: KOMO-TV ABC 4 and Radio 1000

Fire Chief Bob Jepson approached the joint fire board — comprised of representatives from the city of Reading and Reading Township — in January with concerns about 1132′s ability to pass mandated testing and asked the board to consider purchasing a used truck. Jepson noted the department’s response volume and opined the department did not need a new truck.

After reviewing finances, the board determined they would ultimately need an additional $50,000 split between the city and township. The remaining funds would come from the department’s savings. Jepson said he believed the 2000 KME Custom Pumper had around 15 years left of “effective use” left.